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Dacryocystitis

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Dacryocystitis

(Infected Tear Duct)

Definition

Dacryocystitis is swelling and irritation of the lacrimal sac. This sac starts near the inner corner of the eye and runs along the side of the nose. Tears move through tear ducts into this sac. They are then passed out into the nasal passages.

Causes

This problem is caused by a blocked tear duct. Tears become trapped in the sac and form a pool. Bacteria can then grow in the tear pool and create an infection. Both the trapped tears and infection will cause swelling and irritation.

Blocked Tear Duct.

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Risk Factors

This problem is most common in infants with blocked tear ducts. Other things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

  • Swelling and infection in the area from things like conjunctivitis or sinusitis
  • Problems with the tear duct structure, such as narrowing of ducts
  • Injury to the eye or tissue around it

Symptoms

A person may have:

  • Redness and tenderness on the side of the nose near the inner corner of the eye
  • Swelling or a bump on the side of the nose
  • Fever
  • Mucus or pus in the corner of the eye
  • Crusty eyelids or eyelashes after sleep

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. An eye exam will be done. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.

Fluid samples may be taken from the eye or sac. The fluid will be checked for bacteria. This will help the doctor decide which antibiotic may work best.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to help the tears drain properly and to clear up any infection.

For a tear duct blockage without signs of infection, the doctor may advise:

  • Warm compresses over the area
  • Gentle massage of the duct to promote draining

Antibiotics may be needed to treat an infection caused by bacteria.

The cause of the tear duct blockage may need to be treated. This may be done with:

  • A balloon procedure to open narrow tear ducts
  • Surgery to open or make a new path for tears to drain

Prevention

Dacryocystitis cannot be prevented.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Dacryocystitis. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/eye-disorders/eyelid-and-lacrimal-disorders/dacryocystitis.
  • Dacryocystitis (acute). The College of Optometrists website. Available at: https://www.college-optometrists.org/clinical-guidance/clinical-management-guidelines/dacryocystitis_acute.
  • Nasolacrimal duct obstruction. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/nasolacrimal-duct-obstruction-15.

Contributors

  • James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated:
2023-03-28

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.